Blood in Stool

Is Blood in Stool a Serious Issue?

Noticing blood in your stool—or even just on toilet paper—can feel alarming. In our Queens, New York office, it’s a common concern we evaluate every day. The good news: most causes are not life-threatening and can be treated effectively. That said, it’s impossible to know the exact cause without a proper medical examination. For your safety and peace of mind, we recommend that anyone experiencing rectal bleeding schedule a visit with Dr. David Tenembaum and Dr. Israel Aviles for a thorough evaluation.

What Causes Blood in Stool?

There are many possible reasons why blood may appear in the stool. Some of the more common and less serious causes include:

• Internal or external hemorrhoids

• Constipation

• Anal fissures (small tears)

• Diverticulosis

• Polyps

• Ulcers

However, rectal bleeding can also be a sign of more serious conditions such as:

• Colon or rectal cancer

• Tumors

• Inflammatory bowel diseases like Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis

Because the causes range from minor to potentially life-threatening, seeing a doctor is the only way to know for sure.

Symptoms to Watch For

In addition to visible bleeding, blood in the stool can sometimes lead to symptoms such as:

• Fatigue

• Weakness

• Shortness of breath

• Pale skin

In some cases, bleeding may be “silent” with no obvious signs, only showing up as low blood counts on routine lab work.

When to See a Doctor for Blood in Stool

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:

• Heavy rectal bleeding

• Dizziness, fainting, or confusion

• Rapid or shallow breathing

• Chest or abdominal pain

• Severe cramping

For all other cases, we encourage you to book an appointment with Dr. David Tenembaum and Dr. Israel Aviles in our Queens, New York office. With an accurate diagnosis, we can provide the right treatment to restore your health and peace of mind.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Blood in Stool

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Can hemorrhoids cause blood in stool?

Yes. Hemorrhoids are one of the most common causes of rectal bleeding. They can cause bright red blood on the toilet paper, in the bowl, or on the surface of the stool. While often minor, it’s still important to rule out other causes with a doctor.

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Is blood in stool always cancer?

No. While colon and rectal cancers can cause blood in stool, there are many less serious causes such as hemorrhoids, constipation, or anal fissures. Only a gastroenterologist can determine the exact cause through proper evaluation.

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When should I see a gastroenterologist for blood in stool?

You should schedule an appointment any time you notice blood in your stool. Seek immediate care if the bleeding is heavy or if you have symptoms such as dizziness, fainting, shortness of breath, or severe abdominal pain.

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What tests are used to find the cause of blood in stool?

Depending on your symptoms, your gastroenterologist may recommend blood work, stool studies, imaging, or an endoscopic procedure such as a colonoscopy to identify the source of bleeding.